Fenoprofen tablets or capsules

What is this medicine?

FENOPROFEN (fen oh PROE fen) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is used to reduce swelling and to treat pain. This medicine may be used to treat osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine with food if your stomach gets upset. Try to not lie down for at least 10 minutes after you take the medicine. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Long-term, continuous use may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

black or bloody stools, blood in the urine or vomit

blurred vision

chest pain

difficulty breathing or wheezing

nausea or vomiting

severe stomach pain

slurred speech or weakness on one side of the body

unexplained weight gain or swelling

unusually weak or tired

yellowing of eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

constipation

diarrhea

dizziness

heartburn

minor upset stomach

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

cidofovir

ketorolac

methotrexate

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

aspirin and aspirin-like drugs

diuretics

lithium

medicines for high blood pressure

medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin

phenobarbital

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

an unusual or allergic reaction to fenoprofen, aspirin, other NSAIDs, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your pain does not get better. Talk to your doctor before taking another medicine for pain. Do not treat yourself.

This medicine does not prevent heart attack or stroke. In fact, this medicine may increase the chance of a heart attack or stroke. The chance may increase with longer use of this medicine and in people who have heart disease. If you take aspirin to prevent heart attack or stroke, talk with your doctor or health care professional.

Do not take medicines such as ibuprofen and naproxen with this medicine. Side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, or ulcers may be more likely to occur. Many medicines available without a prescription should not be taken with this medicine.

This medicine can cause ulcers and bleeding in the stomach and intestines at any time during treatment. Do not smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol. These increase irritation to your stomach and can make it more susceptible to damage from this medicine. Ulcers and bleeding can happen without warning symptoms and can cause death.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.

This medicine can cause you to bleed more easily. Try to avoid damage to your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth.